Veteran games’ team organizer to retire after two decades

Luke Schipper started with WP&FG 1989

BURNABY, BC – The active involvement with organizing the Dutch participation at the biennial World Police & Fire Games to be held again at Vancouver, BC, next month, is coming to an end for local Hilversum-born entrepreneur Luke Schipper.

The electronic parts importer and distributor started helping out with the Dutch contingent for the WP&FG in the months leading up to the 1989 Games, then also held in Vancouver. After twenty years with WPFG Nederland, the 2009 Games will be his final one as fellow organizer and as member of the group’s board.

Schipper has not only been present at nearly all of the world games in the intervening years but also at some of the European championships. Although his official involvement will end, he still plans to attend the Games when possible.

The Dutch contingent at the WP&FG meets has netted a significant medal haul at each occasion when the number of medals are considered in the light of the number of athletes. Proportionally speaking, Schipper regularly rates the Dutch teams among the top.

The Dutch team in the Vancouver 2009 Games will compete with 54 athletes, including 16 soccer players.

The Dutch community is invited to meet with the Dutch players at a special Holland Night, scheduled for Saturday night August 8th at a Burnaby hotel. The WP&FG Nederland can be reached for more information at luke-politiesport”at”telus.net.